The NBA record for the most three-pointers in a game by one player belongs to Klay Thompson, who drained 14 triples on January 23, 2015, in a loss to the Sacramento Kings. This iconic performance shattered the previous benchmark and redefined the perception of what was possible from the perimeter in a single night.
The Record Holder: Klay Thompson's Historic Night
On that January evening in Sacramento, the Warriors' sharpshooter operated with a rare combination of rhythm and fearlessness. Thompson launched an unprecedented number of attempts, converting 14 of his 24 shots from beyond the arc. The efficiency was remarkable, but the sheer volume of threes transformed the game's trajectory and etched his name in the league's record book, a benchmark that still stands nearly a decade later.
Breaking the Previous Benchmark
Before Thompson's explosion, the record for most three-pointers was held by a handful of elite shooters, including the legendary Ray Allen. However, these marks were typically set by players taking a high volume of shots. Thompson's performance was distinct because it surpassed the previous standard without relying on an inefficient, desperate volume of attempts; his 24 attempts were calculated within a high-functioning offensive system.
Context and Contributing Factors
Thompson's record is not just a product of individual skill, but also of scheme and timing. The Warriors were in the midst of a dynasty, utilizing a motion-heavy offense that generated open looks. He was matched up against a smaller, less experienced defender in the backcourt, allowing him the space to operate without immediate pressure or double-teams.
The Modern Evolution of Shooting
The 2015 season marked a turning point in the NBA's analytics-driven era. Teams were increasingly prioritizing efficient shot attempts, and the three-point shot had become a primary weapon. Thompson's performance validated this shift, demonstrating that a focused, high-volume attack from the perimeter could overwhelm even a prepared opponent, influencing how offenses are constructed league-wide.
Players Chasing the Record
Since Thompson's clinic, several elite shooters have approached the record, testing the limits of modern offensive execution. Players like Damian Lillard and Trae Young have come close, showcasing the evolving skill set required to consistently threaten the perimeter at an NBA level. Their efforts highlight the difficulty of replicating such a singular, perfect shooting night.
Sustained Excellence vs. One-Night Perfection
While many players have launched 12 or 13 threes in a game, the gap to 14 remains significant. This distinction separates a hot shooting night from a complete mastery of the modern shot chart. Thompson's record endures because it requires not only the skill to make difficult shots but also the stamina and confidence to attempt them on the biggest stages.
